Yesterday we laid to rest are beloved black Lab, Blue (Registered name: Sadies Blue Boy). Blue is just about 14 years old and was very ill this past year. My husband and I are just sick over losing him; it leaves such a void of happiness in our lives. Blue was the most loving family dog one could ever have with a wonderful disposition yet very protective. His parents were champions and he carried their lineage with the most incredible blue-black coat and build. He was very powerful but always with a gentle and loving heart. He loved his tennis ball and carried it continuously, every ready to have you throw it so he could charge off after it, only to return and drop it at your feet, eagerly urging you to throw it again and again. His energy for play was tireless, his love and protectiveness of us unending and he was ever a faithful companion and friend. Our beloved Blue, you are dearly loved and missed...

A quick sketch of two gentlemen eating lunch at Fernando's Mexican Restaurant. They make the best seafood enchiladas around.

Simple Simon Met A Pieman Going to the Fair...
For a larger version click here.
If you've visited this site through Illustration Friday and can't get to my blog, just "Google" me by typing designerm.

Thinking about this week's Illustration Friday theme, "Fat" reminded me of this illustration I recently completed for a book cover contest. The jolly baker who sells pie at the fair is definitely round in the belly and if he eats too many of his own pies he will definitely get fat. I think Simple Simon could use a pie or two!

I just completed and entered a book cover for the
SmartWriter'sPro Contest.
It's been such hectic week and I haven't been able to work on as many illustration projects as I'd like but I do have several on the drawing boards in various stages. As soon as I am able I will post them.

I also just completed a 4-hour business module and received a 100% and certification. Whoohoo! Upward and Onward!

Designerm has been my signature for as long as I can remember. Many years ago I created this signature logo for my work. I have often thought this would make a great tattoo but I still cannot figure out where I would put it on my body that I would want people to view it. I am thinking in a more inconspicuous place, but then what's the point? For more of my work, visit designerm dot com.

Click on "Home" (below) for more recently posted illustrations on a Latte A Day.

You know what it's like sitting at airports. It can get pretty boring if you don't amuse yourself. This day luckily, there were a few people checking in, for me to sketch.


Do ever wonder if your children are listening to you while you talk to them?
I wondered about this mother and son.

For this week's Illustration Friday theme "insect". I'm reposting one of the first illustrations I ever did for IF but it's a favorite of mine and works well with the insect theme. I have always loved crickets -especially Disney's Jiminy Cricket character. Who couldn't love him and his delightfully chirpy voice!

When I saw Niff and Sutter's Blind Contour First Friday theme, "hot" I was delighted. I took a break at Starbuck's from a stressful day and took my sketchbook as usual. I was the only person besides the employees working behind the counter so I decided to do a blind contour of my Latte. I like my Latte's good and "hot" and have been known to ask for mine extra hot (so that it scorches the roof of one's mouth). Nothing worse than a warm Latte. I would have liked to have been more original with this theme as it is such a great one (see Niff and Sutter's) but I am in a time crunch with an all day meeting tomorrow. For more cool Blind Contour First Friday's visit Inkfinger!